The negative impact of a sedentary profession, development of obesity, energy balance systems, and obesity reduction are examined. Obesity-related health problems, including lower back problems, heart attacks, high blood pressure and circulatory diseases, account for 45-50 percent of all early retirements, and approximately 50-55 percent of all light duty assignments. Educational resources on obesity for use by individual sheriffs departments are discussed, including the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, the American Health Association, and the National Institutes of Health. 31 references.